KODAN, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan 2, 2026--
In a moment of profound symbolism and national pride, American Eagle Foundation (AEF) is thrilled to announce the hatching of the first bald eaglet born on January 1st, 2026 – the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. This remarkable birth marks a powerful new beginning, echoing the spirit of renewal and resilience that defines the nation.
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The eaglet, whose parents are “Gabby & Beau” hatched this morning at approximately 7:54 AM EST at one of AEF’s monitored wild nest sites. This historic arrival is being closely observed by AEF’s wildlife cam coordinator, alongside a dedicated team of AEF volunteers.
"This is an extraordinary moment, not just for American Eagle Foundation, but for the entire nation," said Jessica A. Hall, CEO of American Eagle Foundation. "To have a new bald eagle, our national symbol, born on our nation's 250th anniversary is incredibly meaningful. It represents hope, continuity, and the enduring strength of America. This little eaglet is a living testament to the success of bald eagle conservation efforts and a bright beacon for the future."
The birth is particularly significant as it coincides with the nation's Semiquincentennial celebration, offering a natural, living symbol of the country’s enduring spirit. AEF has been at the forefront of bald eagle conservation for decades, working tirelessly to ensure the species thrives. This healthy birth underscores the effectiveness of these ongoing efforts.
AEF will be providing regular updates on the eaglet’s development through its website and social media channels, including live feed on AEF’s YouTube channel @americaneaglefoundation. The public is invited to follow the journey of this special "250th Eaglet" as it grows and prepares for its eventual flight.
"We are overjoyed to share this momentous occasion with the American people," added Jessica A. Hall, CEO, American Eagle Foundation. "This birth is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we work together to protect our nation’s conservation heritage. We encourage everyone to celebrate this milestone by learning more about bald eagles and supporting our mission to ensure their future for the next 250 years and beyond."
American Eagle Foundation is committed to providing vital educational programs that foster a deeper appreciation for these magnificent birds.
About American Eagle Foundation:
American Eagle Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation, education, and protection of bald and golden eagles. American Eagle Foundation operates the nation’s largest bald eagle sanctuary at Dollywood Park and Resorts in Pigeon Forge, TN. Through educational outreach, and habitat preservation, AEF works to ensure the long-term survival of these iconic birds and inspire future generations of conservation stewards.
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A Symbol of Hope for America’s 250th: American Eagle Foundation Announces Birth of First Eaglet on National Anniversary
NEW YORK (AP) — Stocks rose in morning trading on Wall Street Friday, joining global markets to kick off a new year on an upbeat note.
The S&P 500 rose 0.7%. The benchmark index is coming off a gain of more than 16% in 2025.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 42 points, or 0.1%, as of 10:03 a.m. Eastern. The Nasdaq composite rose 1.3%.
Markets in Europe and Asia also made strong gains. Indexes in Britain and South Korea hit records.
The gains are helping trim some of the broader weekly losses for the market, which is closing a shortened holiday week. Markets were closed Thursday for New Year’s Day.
Technology stocks were leading the market higher, especially companies with a focus on artificial intelligence, continuing the trend that pushed the broader market to records in 2025.
Nvidia jumped 2.8% and was the biggest force pushing the market higher. Apple jumped 2% and Google's parent company, Alphabet, rose 2%. They are among the most valuable companies in the world and their outsized valuations give them more influence on the market's direction.
Technology companies have been a major focus because of advancements in artificial intelligence technology and the potential for growth within the sector. Wall Street has been betting that demand for computer chips and other items needed for data centers will help justify the big investments from technology companies and their pricey stock values.
Tesla rose 0.8% despite reporting falling sales for a second year in a row.
E-commerce giant Alibaba climbed 4.3% and Baidu, maker of the Ernie chatbot, jumped 9.4% in Hong Kong after it said it plans to spin off its AI computer chip unit Kunlunxin, which would list shares in Hong Kong early in 2027. The plan is subject to regulatory approvals.
Crude oil prices slipped. Prices for U.S. crude oil fell 1.2% to $56.73 per barrel. The price of Brent crude, the international standard, fell 1.2% to $60.13 per barrel.
Gold prices kicked off the new year with more gains. The price of gold rose 0.7%.
Treasury yields held steady in the bond market. The yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.18% from 4.17% late Wednesday. The yield on the two-year Treasury, which moves more closely with expectations for what the Federal Reserve will do, held steady at 3.48% from late Wednesday.
AP business writer Elaine Kurtenbach contributed to this report.
A screen shows the Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) as participants applaud during the opening ceremony of the 2026 trading year at the Korea Exchange in Seoul, South Korea, Friday, Jan. 2, 2026. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)
Dancers in traditional costumes perform to celebrate the opening for the 2026 trading year outside of the Korea Exchange in Seoul, South Korea, Friday, Jan. 2, 2026. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)
A worker walks near a screen showing the Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) after the opening ceremony of the 2026 trading year at the Korea Exchange in Seoul, South Korea, Friday, Jan. 2, 2026. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)
South Korean financial officers celebrate the opening for the 2026 trading year outside of the Korea Exchange in Seoul, South Korea, Friday, Jan. 2, 2026. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)
Dancers in a bull-shaped costume perform to celebrate the opening for the 2026 trading year outside of the Korea Exchange in Seoul, South Korea, Friday, Jan. 2, 2026. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)
